We Love A. Lange & Söhne
The History of A. Lange & Söhne: A Legacy of German Precision and Elegance
A. Lange & Söhne stands as a beacon of horological excellence, blending unparalleled craftsmanship with an uncompromising pursuit of innovation. Founded in 1845 in Glashütte, Germany, by Ferdinand Adolph Lange, the brand has become synonymous with precision, engineering mastery, and timeless design. After a turbulent history marked by world wars and nationalization, A. Lange & Söhne was reborn in the 1990s, reclaiming its place among the world’s most prestigious watchmakers.
The Founding Vision
Ferdinand Adolph Lange established his workshop in the small Saxon town of Glashütte with a mission to create the finest timepieces and elevate the region’s watchmaking industry. Lange’s pioneering work introduced standardized parts and innovative techniques, laying the foundation for Germany’s watchmaking heritage.
A Tumultuous History
A. Lange & Söhne thrived for nearly a century, creating pocket watches of exceptional quality that were cherished by royalty, scientists, and industrialists. However, the brand faced near-total destruction during World War II when its factory was bombed. Following the war, Glashütte was incorporated into East Germany, and the company was nationalized, ceasing operations under the A. Lange & Söhne name.
In 1990, after the fall of the Berlin Wall, Walter Lange, the great-grandson of Ferdinand Adolph Lange, revived the brand with the help of watch industry titan Günter Blümlein. Their shared vision restored A. Lange & Söhne to its former glory.
Iconic Creations
A. Lange & Söhne’s modern timepieces reflect the brand’s dedication to innovation and traditional craftsmanship:
Lange 1: Launched in 1994 as part of the brand’s rebirth, this asymmetrically designed watch features a patented outsize date display and has become an icon of modern horology.
Datograph: A masterpiece of chronograph design, celebrated for its column-wheel mechanism and stunning finishing.
Zeitwerk: A groundbreaking mechanical watch with a digital time display, showcasing Lange’s engineering prowess.
1815: Named after the birth year of Ferdinand Adolph Lange, this collection pays homage to the brand’s classical roots with elegant, hand-finished designs.
Grand Complication: Introduced in 2013, this watch features a perpetual calendar, split-seconds chronograph, and minute repeater, epitomizing the pinnacle of haute horology.
Craftsmanship and Excellence
Each A. Lange & Söhne timepiece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The brand is known for its hand-engraved balance cocks, three-quarter plates made of German silver, and movements that are finished to the highest standards. Every watch undergoes a double assembly process to ensure perfection.
Famous Admirers
A. Lange & Söhne has attracted a loyal following among discerning collectors and influential figures, including Bill Gates, Ed Sheeran, and Brad Pitt. These timepieces are prized for their understated elegance and mechanical ingenuity.
Why We Love Buying, Selling, and Trading A. Lange & Söhne Watches
A. Lange & Söhne embodies the pinnacle of German engineering and watchmaking artistry. Their timepieces are not only feats of technical brilliance but also works of art that exude elegance and sophistication. We love buying, selling, and trading A. Lange & Söhne watches because they represent the perfect marriage of form and function, making them a treasured addition to any collection. Whether it’s the iconic Lange 1 or the innovative Zeitwerk, each piece is a testament to the brand’s enduring legacy and uncompromising standards.
